I had an opportunity to tour Civilla and the podcast is just a continuation of critically thinking. Really enjoyed being part of the journey

An inspiring introduction to human centered design in complex systems...thank you! Your empathy and energy shine through....

The podcast I've been looking for since I first heard of podcasts. Social change, empowerment, theory + practice, grant writing - I love it. This team is inspiring and encouraging, two essential ingredients in the long, winding road to changing the world.

We've all seen those big, societal problems and thought, "How the hell did that happen?" In One Billion, Civilla tells a story about a team who asked themselves that question and then took the courageous steps to find a solution. The content of each episode is masterfully crafted, to the point where you feel like you're watching a movie. The episodes are focused around insightful, moving, and often humorous conversations among the Civilla team and those affected by their project. The honesty in this podcast is refreshing -- they talk about their frustrations and confusions. They also talk about their successes! I was pleased to learn, in the interlude to episode 8, that the team is working on a pilot project in the State of Michigan. Clearly, this podcast is the work of experts and professionals of the highest caliber. Highly recommended!

This small team taking on a huge challenge has charmed and inspired me! I love the way they articulate their nontraditional approaches to problem-solving and the rigor they bring to this kind of design/innovation work. A must-listen if you care about social innovation, design thinking, nontraditional work culture, inspiring stories, Detroit, and/ or participatory design. Thumbs up!

This is the spunkiest, most heart-filled design studio on the block. They unpack the journey applying for a *huge* grant in an intentional, funny, and thoughtful way. You might say "wait, what? This is a podcast about a grant application?" Yes. It is. And listening to it will make you a better practitioner, designer, and citizen. It just might prompt you to take a big risk to do good yourself.

A heartful but lighthearted podcast of a small group of people working to change the world - can't recommend more highly

Great storytelling and insights into big ideas, grant writing, and non-profit management. Congrats on the great work and great podcast!

I'm loving following civilla's journey through this podcast! The warmth, spirit, and vision of their team is inspiring and uplifting, and downright infectious. I admire that they're boldly and humbly making their process public. I'm rooting for their application to the $100M MacArthur grant, but even more so for the little team that could... And will!

Thoughtful narrative with laughs, and brains better than my own. Love it.

A fascinating and intimate look into how an inspiring Detroit organization grapples with what it means to pursue BIG change. Love the way these guys dialogue with the typical grant-writing exercise to chip away at the heart of what they want to pursue, and how they want to tell their story.

I started listening this week and found this to be good right from the first episode. It is a warts-and-all look at a small team designing around a competition. Really fun.

Thoughtfully done, inspiring story and incredibly important topic. It's a must listen! I love this podcast so much 🙌🏻

This is one of the most inspirational podcasts of 2016. Human-centered design at its best! If you don't start asking questions and want to start a movement - check your pulse.

I'm glad Mr. Becker admitted to NEVER read the 64-page form. Now, imagine having to deal with "life experiences" that led you to seek assistance coupled with completing the form knowing that the form is the gateway to receiving public assistance. It is standing in the way of shelter, medical needs, or your next meal! Wow, it brings tears to my eyes just remembering...

Comically describes the process of human-centered design in a unique and thought-provoking outlook! It truly gives one an insight of how committed and honest civilla is in their mission to "poke the universe"!

Civilla has the amazing ability to be so selfless and humble. Each episode of this journey to ONE BILLION reminds you of that...as if you had the chance to forget. Im always ready to hear what's coming next!

Totally captured my interest! I am rooting for civilla!!

This is the story of a small team with big plans. We're excited to share the journey we're on - and it means a lot to have you along for the ride. Keep all the support and input coming!

One Billion is an amazing story of intelligent and creative people solving tough challenges. It's not every day you come across a podcast that makes you think, laugh, smile, and challenges the way you think. Plus, they spent a hilarious amount of time trying to reach Michelle Obama through the White House Switchboard which is pretty hilarious (I'm still hoping she joins your dream team :) ). In all seriousness this podcast raises awareness about a serious problem of people who are unable to obtain the resources they desperately need, and those who are trying to bridge the gap. Keep the episodes coming!

One Billion is a very entertaining podcast that is completely transparent on their current endeavor, winning a $100M grant from The MacArthur Foundation. Their storytelling approach is engaging, genuine, and of course funny! Would definitely recommend people to subscribe and follow this awesome effort.

Where John's voice fades And Imagine stops playing Civilla is rolling up their sleeves Thank you for the privilege Of witnessing your dharma One love

The team at Civilla … in depth thought revealed in the form a narrative. The power of the story will reveal elements and insights when heard from different perspectives … the key is to find the the source of those varied perspectives to reveal the bigger narrative. Looking forward to listening to the future podcasts and listening to the story as it unfolds! Love the production quality and open sharing.

A transparent and personal look inside the process of building a new center for social innovation in Detroit. The "StartUp" version for non-profit and impact work.

I love when communities come together to find a solution. The idea of making something more human and efficient is thrilling. Best of luck on your journey.

I love your podcast!! A large funder came in and basically told us "you are so great at checking the boxes" which was why our grant award increased 50%. That quote really resonated with me. Thanks for doing this.

love the storytelling style... and that soundtrack though.... #toogood

Incredibly audacious goals from a group of civic-minded designers, rabble-rousers, and leaders! I really enjoyed their storytelling to help improve the experience of government for people. Looking forward to future episodes and stories! :)

A rare, and moving behind the scenes look at how a project comes together: the ideas,the courage, heart, low points, community, victories, confusions, hard work, more heart and more hard work, and all of it on display for us. Im prejudiced, no doubt, but trust me on this one, this is going places! And, yeah, I don't think I would give 100 million either to a group who just tamely fills out the forms ....

Keep it up, Civilla! Love hearing about the positive impact you're making on the city and world.

This is a unique window into the magic of civilla.. It seems like a group of folks who ask the right questions and has incredible awareness of themselves and the work they want to do. i can’t wait to hear more!

What an awesome journey to follow! Can't wait to hear what happens next.

A powerful dream, passionate team, drive, creativity, ambition! Ingredients for success. Keep innovating and making this world a better place.

If you're at all interested in change and innovation this is for you. Civilla is an amazing organization, and just like its founders this podcast is always honest, always interesting, and soon something you won't want to do without!

So good! It's like Serial (the good season) without the crime. Can't wait to hear more-- great production quality.

This podcast is as intriguing as it is inspiring. I'm excited for what's to come!!!!

The most magical humans I know and that I could spend hours talking to are now taking on this beautiful podcast! I love the openness and the journey you're taking us on and I'm also anticipating what beautiful things come out of the bold steps into the unknown - thanks for letting us listen in "under the hood."

It's a podcast about 100 million dollars... But it's not really about 100 million dollars. In truth it's a podcast about a small group of people working to create the type of impact that is represented by 100 million dollars. I love the chemistry between these three, and I love the laughter (#lenalaugh), but more than anything, I am inspired by this ragtag band of three working on problems usually reserved for the big boys. It has me wondering, what is my 100 million dollar opportunity? Can't wait to hear what's next.

loved the podcast and love the organization! Give it a listen. If anyone can get the MacArthur grant, it is this group of talented,passionate, committed people to making their community and the universe a better place for all. Go Civilla!

So excited to keep up to date on your work. Can't wait for more!

I'm thrilled to be be able to tune into the adventures of Civilla, my favorite organization in Detroit. There are sure to be exciting things ahead and there's a lot to learn from this team's experience. The behind-the-scenes look at social innovation work is so rare, and here it is in fun and engaging story-form. Adam, Lena and Mike are full of good energy and great stories. Everyone, this is worth a listen!

Excellent production by some truly inspiring individuals. Can't wait to see where this goes.

Dang - $100 million to poke the universe. Love it!!! And if anyone can do it, truly make it happen, it is Team Civilla!!

Great intro for what promises to be an amazing journey. Looking forward to the next episode!!

Think this one is worth listening to, though I may be a bit biased :)

Civilla is a force to be reckoned with. Having worked closely with their team on social impact design in Detroit, I can confidently say that this is the first and most amazing thing you can follow on the internet today. If you want to be along for the ride as humble, curious humans explore making a difference in the world, subscribe now.

Touching, loving, and heartfelt. This deserves the support to put something in place. Our old "tried and true" approaches aren't working. We should give them a shot.

There has only been one episode and I already know that it's going to be a great story. I know the team at Civilla in a professional capacity and they are passionate, thoughtful, intentional and just downright smart. I'm eager to listen to them tell their story and learn from their refreshing audacity to dream big and make an impact.

Loved the first show! Can't wait to hear more about your journey. Great job Lena, Adam, and Mike!

The loveliest group of people with the best brains and biggest hearts. Looking forward to this new opportunity in following along with their work!